Two groups of protesters, one pro-Israel and the other pro-Palestinian, are currently demonstrating at George Washington University in Washington, DC. The groups are located about four blocks away from each other on campus.
The pro-Israel protesters, which include relatives of hostages held by Hamas and students from local universities, are gathered in a small yard giving speeches and chanting 'bring them home.' Despite a recent violent confrontation at the University of California, Los Angeles, the pro-Israel group has stated they do not plan on engaging with the pro-Palestinian protesters nearby.
On the pro-Palestinian side, demonstrators are engaging in speeches, songs, and chants while waving Palestinian flags in the quad area. The pro-Israel group is approximately one-quarter the size of the pro-Palestinian protesters.
Law enforcement from the DC Metro Police and GW police are closely monitoring the protests, ensuring that they remain peaceful. Faculty members, including professors from various universities in the DC area, have formed a line between the two groups to protect the pro-Palestinian protesters in case of any potential escalation.
Professor Mark Lance from Georgetown University, leading the faculty line, mentioned that the decision to form the line was influenced by the events at UCLA, where law enforcement cleared an encampment and detained pro-Palestinian protesters. Lance, a professor of philosophy and 'justice and peace' studies, highlighted that this is the first time faculty members have organized in this manner, acknowledging the risks involved.
As of now, the protests at George Washington University have remained peaceful, with both sides expressing their viewpoints in a controlled manner. The presence of law enforcement and faculty members has helped maintain a sense of order and security during the demonstrations.
